Kate Pinkerton from Tunbridge Wells and Hazel O’Boyle from Whitstable join UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) in the South East to boost exports

A fashion worker and export manager have been appointed as advisors at UK Trade and Investment in the South East to meet government targets to create another 100,000 exporters in the next five years.

Kate Pinkerton and Hazel O’Boyle will join 45 other advisors across the region with the aim of keeping the South East as the biggest exporting region in the country.

Mrs Pinkerton, based in Tunbridge Wells, joins UKTI after more than 15 years in export management covering Europe, Africa, The Americas and the Middle East.

New UKTI advisor Kate Pinkerton

Mrs O’Boyle, who lives in Whitstable, joins from a successful 25-year career in the fashion sector, where she worked with well-known brands such as Elle, setting up their export division from scratch.

Latest figures suggest UKTI helped South East companies win £3.08bn of new business in the last year.

Mrs Pinkerton said: “As far as I am concerned, there are opportunities in almost all markets for Kent businesses, big or small.

“The challenge is to identify the right market for your company by doing your research and, of course, getting in touch with UK Trade & Investment and advisers such as myself

New UKTI advisor Hazel O’Boyle

“There is a renewed global interest in British designed and produced goods and services. The tag Made in Britain is highly regarded and there is strong international demand for British quality, reliability and flair.

“Whether you’re just starting out or are already an established exporter, we can help you access this demand and realise your potential in the global marketplace.”

Mrs O’Boyle said: “Exporting success is largely down to the universal appeal of the British brand combined with the tireless innovation of small and medium sized enterprises up and down the country.

“It’s very clear that Kent firms have a great deal to offer.

“With its close proximity to the Capital, as well as its thriving energy, manufacturing and services sectors, Kent is a bustling county which is an ideal environment for ambitious businesses.

“From the White Cliffs of Dover to the edges of London, the opportunities in Kent are as varied as the county itself.”